The Joint Islamic Organizations in Niger State has dismissed the state Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) claims on the Hisbah Law passed by the State Assembly awaiting governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s assent.

The groups in a joint press briefing in Minna, said that with respect to CAN’s right to express its views, the several claims were misleading, inaccurate and capable of heightening religious tension, while they reaffirmed for a peaceful co-existance in Niger state.

Speaking on behalf of other groups, Niger State Amir of Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, Mohammed Lawal Murshid stated that Hisbah Law is not directed at the Christians or non- Muslims.

The groups unanimously called on Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to respect the state popular demand of the voice of majority to assent to the law for its full implementation in Niger State that has approximately ninety percent Muslims to promote moral uprightness and community welfare.

He added that the assertion that Niger State is “not a Muslim- dominant state” does not reflect the current demographic and institutional realities,  saying that the the traditional institutions of Niger state is rooted in Islamic heritage and 25 out of 27 House of Assembly members are Muslims.

Lawal Murshid revealed that CAN claim that Shari’a- related institutions or faith based moral structures have made Niger state backward is unfounded while reflecting on the socio-economy challenges of the country. Saying unequivocally that CAN has no jurisdiction or business regarding the Hisbah Law because it’s a faith based internal mechanism for the Muslim community.

According to him, letter of invitation was extended to Niger state chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria CAN for the public hearing while dismissing the claim that Hisbah Law will replace statutory security agencies but intended to complement community moral guidance and mediation among Muslims.

The groups further revealed that the Hisbah Law will lead to persecution, harassment, or suppression of Christians as claimed by CAN are speculative and unfounded, hence no provision of the law empowers Hisbah to interfere with the religious freedo, businesses or personal liberties of non Muslims.

The Joint Islamic Organizations regretted the recent political campaigns in an attempt by some actors to mobilize voters along religious lines, although the Muslim community in Niger state did not respond with hostility or exclusion. Christians have continued to enjoy fair representation in governance which is the reflection of commitment to co-existance, fairness, and shared development of entire Niger state.

It urged all religious leaders and organizations to avoid rhetoric that may inflame passion or create fear among the citizens as dialogue, mutual respect, and responsible communication remains essential for peace and unity in Niger state.

Amir of Niger State MSSN, Mohammed Lawal Murshid Reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Islamic Organizations to sustain peaceful co-existance, constitutional order, and interfaith harmony while calling on citizens to placed unity and development above divisive narratives.

The groups that signed the letter titled: Hisbah Law: Joint Islamic Organizations in Niger State Address CAN’s Concerns, Reaffirms Peaceful Co-existance in Niger State was signed by the MSSN, Imam Forum of Niger State, Council of Muslim Societies (CMS), FOMWAN, JIBWIS Kaduna, Tijjaniyya Groups, and Salafiya Group respectivel.